Production
1961 – 1995
Country
Canada / Germany
Optical
9 elements in 5 groups
Updated
Jul 18, 2026
Leica Summilux-M 35mm f/1.4 (pre-ASPH)
Leica M · 35mm · f/1.4
Compiled from 5 real reviews · AI-assisted · accuracy-checked · Updated 18 Jul 2026
Overview
The Leica Summilux-M 35mm f/1.4 pre-ASPH is the fast wide-angle for Leica M. Multiple versions exist — the pre-ASPH models (especially Steel Rim and later) offer character that the clinical ASPH lacks. For street photography in low light, this was THE lens.
Verdict: The romantic's fast 35mm. The pre-ASPH Summilux 35mm offers glow and character that clinical modern lenses can't replicate. If you want perfection, get the ASPH. If you want soul, get this.
Optical Character
Bokeh
Smooth and creamy, with soft-edged highlight discs and no harsh edges or nervousness.
Color
Neutral to slightly warm, with natural saturation and smooth tonal transitions.
Sharpness wide open
Gentle sharpness wide open in the center, improving significantly at f/2.8-f/4; corners remain softer until f/5.6.
Flare resistance
Prone to veiling glare and ghosting with strong light sources; can be used creatively for atmospheric effects.
Contrast
Moderate global contrast wide open, increasing when stopped down; gentle micro-contrast that flatters skin tones.
Vignetting
Noticeable vignetting wide open, largely gone by f/2.8.
Community Insights
What people love
- The 'glow' at f/1.4
- Low light street capability
- Romantic character
- Compact for f/1.4 35mm
- The Leica look
What people dislike
- Soft wide open (subjective)
- Heavy vignetting
- Flare issues
- Expensive
Pro Tips
- Steel Rim = maximum character, maximum flaws
- Later pre-ASPH = better balance
- f/2-f/2.8 sweet spot
- The 'flaws' are why people pay premiums
Compatible Adapters
Real adapters from our shop that fit this lens mount.
Standard · ฿480 · In stock
Standard · ฿480 · In stock
Standard · ฿480 · In stock
Standard · ฿490 · In stock
Standard · ฿490 · In stock
Standard · ฿490 · In stock
Standard · ฿590 · In stock
Standard · ฿640 · In stock
Standard · ฿640 · In stock
Standard · ฿640 · In stock
Standard · ฿1,250 · In stock
Standard · ฿1,250 · In stock
Sample Photos
Sources (5)
Curated heritage archive
The romantic's fast 35mm. The pre-ASPH Summilux 35mm offers glow and character that clinical modern lenses can't replicate. If you want perfection, get the ASPH. If you want soul, get this.
Web research
The Leica Summilux-M 35mm f/1.4 pre-ASPH is for photographers who value character and history over clinical perfection. If you want a lens that renders with a unique 'glow,' smooth bokeh, and a dimensional quality that modern lenses often lack, this is a compelling choice. It's ideal for street photography, environmental portraits, and documentary work where its compact size and fast aperture shine. However, if you need razor-sharp corners wide open, perfect flare control, or the convenience of modern coatings, look elsewhere. This lens rewards patience and understanding—it's not about technical perfection, but about capturing images with soul and a distinctive vintage signature that has made it a legend among photographers for over half a century.
https://fcracer.com/leica-35mm-f1-4-summilux-pre-asp-ii-11870-review/https://jacktaka.com/leica-35mm-f14-summilux-fle